How to choose the best bed linen

Don’t chance it, find the best style, texture and quality of bed linen for you with our essential guide.

How to choose the best bed linen.

Bed linen guide

The right bedding is a must-have for any bedroom, but it can be tricky to know what to choose. Duvets, pillowcases and sheets can be made from a variety of fabrics and finished with a variety of techniques.

The fabric, technique and thread count define the quality of a bed linen piece, as well as how it looks and feels against your skin. Our guide breaks down all the features you need to consider, helping you find the bed linen that suits your personal preference.

Fabric types

The fabric type is what a piece of bed linen is made from.

Some fabrics are made from 100% natural fibres such as cotton, which has a super soft finish, while others are made from synthetic fibres like polyester, which is easy to care for and quick drying. Others combine the two, giving you the best of both worlds.

100% cotton

As a natural fibre, 100% cotton is a popular choice due to its super soft and breathable feel.

Brushed cotton is 100% cotton that has been delicately brushed, leaving a soft and snuggly feel.

Cool cotton is made with a special finish that will keep you feeling refreshed, even on warmer nights.

Easycare cotton is crafted to require minimal ironing, due to its easy-care finish.

Egyptian cotton is the very best when it comes to bed linen. It offers superior softness and durability and usually has a greater thread count than other choices.

Easycare polycotton

Named ‘easy care’ due to its low maintenance, polycotton is a blend of polyester and cotton. It’s strong, dries quickly and requires minimal ironing, making it an excellent every day choice.

Fleece

Brushed

Thread count and weight

Thread count is the number of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads per square inch. Duvet covers, pillowcases and bed sheets all have a thread count.

For example, a thread count of 300 means that a piece of fabric has 300 threads for every square inch of the bedding. The higher the thread count, the better the quality of the bedding. Higher thread count should mean increased softness and durability.

You should consider the weight of your bedding depending on the season. Light bed linen is better suited to summer, while heavier pieces offer a cosier feel in the winter.

Bed linen sizes

Duvet cover sizes

You should always choose the same size cover as your duvet. A double duvet needs a double duvet cover and so on.

Toddler 120 x 150cm

Single 135 x 200cm

Double 200 x 200cm

King 230 x 220cm

Superking 260 x 220cm

Flat sheet sizes

Flat sheets are a flexible choice. You can use them to cover your mattress, or as a top sheet between you and a duvet.

Toddler N/a

Single 180 x 260cm

Double 230 x 260cm

King 275cm x 275cm

Superking 275cm x 310cm

Fitted sheet sizes

A fitted sheet wraps around the corners of a mattress, holding it in place. A double mattress needs a double fitted sheet and so on.

Toddler 70 x 140cm

Single 90 x 190cm

Double 135 x 190cm

King 150 x 200cm

Superking 180 x 200cm

Fitted sheet depths

Deeper sheets are suited to deeper mattresses and less likely to come loose in the night.

Easycare polycotton 25cm

Cotton rich 28cm

Cool cotton 28cm

Brushed cotton 28cm

Easycare 100% cotton 28cm / 35cm (extra deep

400 TC Egyptian cotton 30cm deep / 35cm extra deep

Pillowcase styles

Oxford pillowcases

You can spot an Oxford pillowcase by the additional decorative trim around the edge.